LA Metro installs ad-funded digital screens to help citizens navigate transit system

The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) has partnered with Intersection to install a new digital communication and advertising network on the southern portion of the Metro Blue line, as part of Metro’s “New Blue” rail line upgrade.

Customers riding the Metro Blue Line between Long Beach and Compton Stations will see new IxNTouch information screens at each station – powered by Intersection’s IxNConnect communications platform.

The technology is being installed to allow Metro to communicate with customers across a growing network of digital screens and help customers better navigate the agency’s transit system.

Customised information

The interactive touch screens will give riders access to train and bus arrival times, service alerts and advisories and system and connections maps, among other digital tools.

Once complete, the network will allow Metro to target information and messages systemwide, by line, by station and even individual station screen.

Once complete, the network will allow Metro to target information and messages systemwide, by line, by station and even individual station screen.

“We are moving toward customised information delivered in real-time to riders in the way they want and expect,” said Metro CEO Phillip A. Washington. “This is just the latest example of our continuing efforts to create a world-class transportation system in Los Angeles County.”

Metro and Intersection will install nearly 100 digital screens by the time the “New Blue” upgrades are complete this October.

Hundreds of new customer information screens will be phased in across the entire Metro Rail system, and the Orange Line and Silver Line by 2024. IxNTouch panels will be located on station platforms, mezzanines and plazas, with at least two screens at every station.

"The new system will finally bring train arrival times to digital screens at each Blue Line station and make it much easier for you to make your destinations throughout the expansive Metro Rail system," said LA County Supervisor and Metro Board Chair Sheila Kuehl.

Funded by ads

The system is paid for through advertising revenues and Intersection has committed to investing nearly $20 million in digital equipment on the Metro rail system at no cost to the agency.

“We are thrilled to be a part of Metro’s ambitious efforts to transform transportation across Los Angeles County,” said Scott Goldsmith, President of Cities & Transit at Intersection. “We are excited to launch with the Metro Blue Line and continue our work throughout the Metro system, providing riders with the information they need, while driving revenue for Metro that can be reinvested in the system.”

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